5 Reasons To Use A Network Management Provider

Monday, October 3, 2016

Using a network management provider can provide business owners with increased peace of mind and solid advantages over their business rivals. Network management provides more than a simple internet connection - they match it to your requirements and intentionally manage the connection. Listed below are 5 reasons to use a network management provider, including benefiting from customized solutions, proactive management, cost savings, staff benefits, and expansion benefits. Contact us at Packetworks for more information about our network management services.

1 Your Business Will Benefit From Customized Solutions

Customized solutions are one of the chief benefits of a sophisticated network solutions provider. Experts will assist you in determining the specific needs of your business and propose custom solutions. The implementation of these solutions will be accomplished in a way that works with your business needs and not against them. Ongoing solutions will be proposed as technological capabilities and organizational needs change. A custom solution is the ideal way to address your network requirements.

2 Your Network Will Be Proactively Managed

Rather than responding reactively, your network management team will function proactively. Your network solution provider will identify weaknesses and deal with them appropriately before they develop to crisis point. This should include real-time and historical reporting of your network's usage and its statistics.

"I have found Packetworks to be innovative, responsive and helpful. We are always looking for ways to improve our business, and Packetworks works with us, helping to identify possible improvements and find ways to make them happen. Packetworks is an excellent network and internet service provider, and both management and staff have been most supportive of our business."

3 Your Business Will Save Money

A professionally managed network solutions team will save you money. As experts in their field, they are knowledgeable and resourceful. They will be current and aware of all technological trends in their industry that can create savings opportunities for you. This may include assisting you in transitioning from a CAPEX model to an OPEX model. In addition, by being proactively involved in your network, you can be confident that you will be experiencing less downtime and greater staff productivity.

4 Your IT Staff Will Benefit

Your IT staff will benefit from having a networks solutions team available to provide assistance. You may find that your IT staffing costs will be reduced, while your existing staff become more knowledgeable about networking technology and solutions. The added availability of a 24/7 customer support team will ease stress on your existing team and provide them with the assistance they need when problems do arise. Your IT will be able to focus on their regular activities while the customer support team deals with the connection issue.

5 Your Business Will Be Poised For Accelerated Growth

The support provided by a network solutions provider will help your business to become poised for additional growth. With a customized, scalable network solution in place, your business will be able to respond more quickly when opportunities for growth arise. Your IT staff will be secure in the knowledge that there is a team of experts to assist them in transitioning to a larger scale operation.

Packetworks Managed Networks

The Packetworks team of experts creates and manages the networks that connect your people and locations to the Internet, the telephone system, and remote data storage. We can custom design, build, and manage secure networks that incorporate existing large carrier network infrastructure, IP-based technologies, wireless networks, and fibre optic cables, including those that we own and install ourselves. Our growing reputation in Southwestern Ontario means that you can be confident of receiving outstanding customer service and a lightning fast, reliable, and secure network connection. Contact us for more information.

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What is IP Telephony?

Sunday, September 25, 2016

Telephony is, simply put, the technology that allows individuals to communicate with each other over a distance, and IP telephony is that aspect of communication that is carried out over the internet. IP telephony is becoming an increasingly popular form of communication, often replacing traditional telephone systems. Contact us for more information about how we can help your business improve its communication capabilities.

How IP Telephony Works

IP telephony uses "internet protocols" to communicate by digital means over the internet. By using this technology rather than traditional phone systems, the business owner can take advantage of an internet connection and the accompanying hardware and applications to communicate more effectively. The technology is increasingly used in business settings to assist in the improvement of organizational productivity, and lowering of operational costs. For information about SIP trunking and SIP phones read our post entitled, "SIP Phones and SIP Trunking."

IP Telephony Allows Convergence

IP telephony allows for a dramatic advance in communications systems. It allows for the convergence of various systems into one. By taking advantage of IP telephony, the user can combine voice, data, video, and multimedia technologies into one unified system that is digitally based. Convergence creates the potential for huge cost savings and increased productivity.

What's The Difference Between IP Telephony and VoIP?

IP telephony describes the bigger picture of all telephone based internet telecommunications. VoIP is a subset that describes those internet telecommunications that are a voice transmission. Using IP telephony potentially increases productivity while also decreasing overall costs. VoIP uses a LAN (local area network) to connect the phone call to the internet. Contact us to determine what kind of connection would best suit your requirements.

Advantages of VoIP Using IP Telephony over Traditional PBX's

PBX's (Private Branch Exchanges) have come a long way. Many businesses are now using a combination or hybrid of PBX analog and digital. This is because there may still be cost advantages, usually equipment based, to blending.

However, the multitude of business applications features available with VoIP systems using IP telephony give them a huge advantage over PBX's.

For example, an IP phone can be programmed to alert a user on a cell phone when an important external call is received, while also rerouting to voicemail for other types calls.

Those taking advantage of IP telephony by using a VoIP phone can also video chat or video phone without requiring an expensive and complex system. Users can receive voicemails transcribed as emails or text messages. Salespeople can integrate their phones with CRM software and access notes and previous conversations while conversing with a client or prospective customer.

"Packetworks, which provides wireless internet access for the Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board’s fourteen locations throughout Bruce and Grey Counties, deserves an A+ for service! We get consistently friendly, attentive, and prompt service. We haven’t had many problems, but when we do, they are quick to respond and set
things right."

-Fernando De Sousa, Supervisor, ITS
Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Boardwww.bgcdsb.org

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Top 5 Network Security Mistakes Companies Make

Sunday, September 18, 2016

Network security is a vital component of any strategic internet connection for businesses. However, some businesses neglect to introduce the appropriate security measures. This can be due to a lack of understanding of the risks involved, reluctance to adequately fund the security measures, or haste to get a network up and running. At Packetworks we believe in layered security that protects your network, keeping it trustworthy and secure. Contact us for more information about network security.

1 Assuming That Your Business Cannot be a Target

Don't naïvely assume that security breaches are something you hear about on the news. All businesses are targets. Security breakdowns don't always happen to the other guy - they can happen to your organization, so it is important to take as many precautions as you can. All businesses handle secure and sensitive information that someone, somewhere, wants. In addition, there are those who will maliciously seek out and destroy network infrastructures, causing untold damage to business operations. Businesses have been known to be crippled for days and even weeks because they were unprepared for attacks on their networks.

2 Viewing Security as Solely an IT Responsibility

While the burden of responsibility for ensuring the network is secure may fall on the IT department, network security must be seen as a priority by all levels of leadership within an organization. The initiative should come from the top down in the organization, with operational leaders playing an important role in setting the standards. While IT staff may implement the chosen strategies, executive staff must buy into and work in coordination with the IT department, thus setting the tone throughout the organization.

Involving staff from all departments creates a sense of unity and joint responsibility. Staff education is vital in carrying this out. For example, educating staff on how to change passwords when prompted using appropriate, secure passwords rather than the ubiquitous "admin" or "1234" should be recognized as a simple method for letting the entire staff know that they have a vital role to play in the organization's security. Staff should also be taught not to use the same passwords but to always generate new ones.

"Packetworks’ fibre optic network gave us immediate ultra-fast Internet access that has given us services beyond our expectations. We receive excellent value for the dollar and – most importantly – they deliver on their promises."

3 Believing Simple Anti-Virus Software is Sufficient

Obviously, anti-virus software is important, but it should never be regarded as the only solution that is required. Threats to the security of your network are varied and everywhere on the net. These include viruses, spyware, adware, zero-day attacks, worms, hacker attacks, and denial of service. Attacks are constantly evolving as determined hackers find ways to circumvent every defensive measure that is enacted.

It is no longer enough to have virus protection and a firewall. Organizations also need to understand that a multi-layered approach to security is critical. Data encryption should be a part of the strategic plan. Engaging the services of experts in the field is advisable for businesses to stay current and enact the measures necessary to ensure their operations remain protected.

Network security threats are continuously evolving. Simple actions like regularly changing passwords are important, but not enough. For example, is your IT department proactive in seeking out security patches? All software should be updated immediately when security patches become available, yet businesses often hesitate to apply these updates, fearing the loss of time involved in doing this.

Measures should be in[place to counteract the potential of lost data due to crashes, damage to equipment, fires, theft, and more. Businesses must have a backup strategy that is regularly implemented. Disaster recovery plans should be in place that include storing data and critical applications offsite.

5 Neglecting the Endpoints to Your System

Employing software that can vigilantly monitor the endpoints of your system is a must. Hackers can breach the security perimeter and explore your files without fear, unless the system is monitored across the entire business enterprise. Without an aggressive internal monitor that detects unusual and suspicious behaviour, your system is open and vulnerable. In order to maintain cyber security at the highest level, contact cyber security experts who can provide advice and the software you need to protect your system.

Packetworks and Security

Packetworks provides managed, secure networks that let you sleep at night. Our carrier- neutral infrastructure can provide you with fast, custom designed, secure, and scalable networks that meet the specific needs of your business. Contact us immediately for more information.

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What is a Voice Network and How Can It Help Your Business?

Monday, September 5, 2016

VoIP stands for "Voice Over Internet Protocol," and is an advanced technology that allows businesses and staff to communicate more effectively than is possible with traditional phone lines. This technology is also referred to as IP Telephony as it uses internet protocols to transmit packets of data. Although traditional phone systems operate on public switched networks, VoIP converts our voices into packets of information which can be transmitted over the internet. Find out below how you can take advantage of the cost savings, improved efficiency, productivity, communications, and added features that VoIP provides. If you have questions about the advantages of VoIP, read on, and contact us at Packetworks.

How Can VoIP Help?

VoIP allows businesses to remain competitive, and in some cases, gain a competitive edge. It allows you to take full advantage of the network that you already have in place or are planning to upgrade. Essentially, VoIP allows you to operate your phone system over the internet rather than using traditional public switched networks. Consider the following ways that VoIP may be able to help your business. For more information about how VoIP can help your business, read "Business VoIP- The Benefits, Disadvantages And How It Works."

Cost

One of the key factors driving the movement towards VoIP is cost. By using your internet connection you are combining voice and data over one network, reducing or eliminating the need for a traditional phone network. If your business has a quality broadband connection in place and it is not operating at full capacity, you may be able to switch to VoIP for little extra cost. VoIP's are generally quick to install and save also on IT costs as you no longer require switchboard IT. If your business is a larger one that experiences a large amount of telecommunication activity in a day, you may require a T1 internet connection. VoIP to VoIP calls are usually free, while VoIP calls to traditional phone lines cost less. The scalability of a VoIP network allows you to grow your business and add extra phones to the network as needed at little extra cost.

Improved Communication

It is easier to work from any location with an internet connection. Less travel will be required by your employees, thus cutting down on travel expenses and time lost to travel. Using VoIP allows your employees to take advantage of more ways of staying connected. Telecommuting becomes more practical for more workers.

"Packetworks, which provides wireless internet access for the Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board’s fourteen locations throughout Bruce and Grey Counties, deserves an A+ for service! We get consistently friendly, attentive, and prompt service. We haven’t had many problems, but when we do, they are quick to respond and set
things right. "

-Fernando De Sousa, Supervisor, ITS
Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Boardwww.bgcdsb.org

Efficiency & Productivity

VoIP allows for greater efficiency and increased productivity. This is particularly true if your business has more than one location. For example, if any part of your workforce is operating from distant locations, VoIP allows for more direct, effective communication between workers from different locations. Workers only require an internet connection to be in constant contact with the head office or other locations. Video calls and conferencing become more cost-effective and easier to manage. This saves time, effort, and ultimately money.

Features

The ever-widening array of features available on today's telephone systems is both impressive and inexpensive. Features that would cost additional fees with a traditional phone system often come free with a VoIP phone system. Some of the more common features available include:

Voicemail

Conference Calling

Caller ID

Call Forwarding

Unlimited Long Distance

Repeat Dialing

More advanced features can include:

Call Queuing

Call Centre Functionality

Email/Fax Solutions

Find/Follow to Reroute Calls Directly to Mobile Employees

Remote Office Features

While not all features may be appropriate for your business, the advantage of having a wider range of features available at little or no extra cost is enticing to most business owners. Choose the features that make the most sense for your business now and take advantage of new features as they become available.

Videos

The following two videos provide a definition of VoIP is and include some of its advantages:

Packetworks and VoIP

Packetworks has decades of experience in internet technologies. Get sound advice and practical solutions by contacting us for more information. We can walk you through the process of switching from a traditional phone system to a VoIP network. Our team of experts can provide you with a custom-built solution for your business needs. Take advantage of the cost savings and improved efficiency, productivity, communications, and added features that a VoIP system provides. Contact Packetworks for more information.

An Overview Of The Top 5 Apps For Business On High Speed Internet

Monday, August 22, 2016

Business applications are changing the way that we use the internet, and high-speed internet is providing us with the capabilities to run apps that would have been impossible a few short years ago. Many business apps are vying for the owner's attention - and some more useful than others. In order to help the business owner understand the usefulness of these apps and what is required in order to operate them, we have listed 5 of the best apps from reviews around the web. These include Evernote, Google Drive, Toggl, Microsoft Remote Desktop, and Skype. These apps are available on Google Play Store. If you are thinking about upgrading your internet connection, or have questions about using business apps on your existing connection, contact us.

Proudly serving a fast-growing list of customers since 1996!

Evernote makes it to two of the review lists we examined. It is an incredibly useful app that keeps the user well organized. How many times have you had a brilliant idea, or remembered a vital piece of information, yet had nowhere to record it? Evernote provides an excellent platform, particularly for entrepreneurs and creative types who need to store information and ideas. The app will store notes, clip web articles and online content, save files and images, chat with co-workers about projects, and record audio. Sync with your PC or laptop and use on almost any device imaginable. This app is a must-have for any active, mobile employee.

Another tremendously useful app from Google. Use it to access and share files across the internet. Coupled with its ability to create documents in Google Sheets, Google Docs, and Google Slides, the user has a powerful tool. Throw in its 15GB of free cloud storage and it is hard to beat. Sign up for a business account and potentially have unlimited storage. Google Drive is a fantastic tool for those on the go or collaborating with workers around the globe.

Free for up to 5 users with options to expand the number of users with upgrades, Toggl is an excellent time-management tool. It will track the time that you and your team members spend on specific projects, helping you to determine project costs and assess where you are spending too much time. With the business level app, you get a complete management tool for unlimited team members with all the lower level features and also tracking reminders, time audits, locking reports, all in one app! Along with Google Drive, Skype, and Microsoft Remote Desktop, this app makes the Business News Daily's Top Ten Android Apps for Business list.

For all those who are committed Microsoft users, the remote desktop app is a free and incredibly useful and powerful app. This app is a reliable, stable, and secure way to use your Microsoft apps on the go. By configuring your PC or laptop for remote access you can connect to and work with your projects and files from almost anywhere in the world. The connections to your data and applications are secure through your "Remote Desktop Gateway." Obviously, this makes it a leading tool in office use.

"Packetworks’ fibre optic network gave us immediate ultra-fast Internet access that has given us services beyond our expectations. We receive excellent value for the dollar and – most importantly – they deliver on their promises."

-Sam Khanna, Controller

Although it has been around for a few years now, it is hard to beat Skype for communicating with employees and clients alike. This video conferencing app allows you to communicate directly, and visually, with other users by using the front facing camera on your mobile phone. Download the app for free, then use it when needed. Apply skype credits for those phone calls that require it and call free when possible. If you are away from the office there is no better way to get involved in a staff meeting from a distance.

High-Speed Internet From Packetworks

Packetworks provides amazingly fast internet connections that are reliable, secure, and custom designed. Our team of experts will listen to your needs before designing and implementing a custom network solution that consistently delivers. Utilize the apps mentioned above and countless others that are specific to the requirements of your staff, while being confident that Packetworks customer service is there to help you when you need it.

Serving South Western Ontario, Packetworks is proud of its growing, excellent reputation amongst small business owners, private and public organizations, multi-location plants, franchises, schools, and more.

Connect with the internet experts at Packetworks for the answers to your internet problems.

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Canadian Internet: Why do Canadians Spend More for Their Internet?

Monday, August 15, 2016

Why do Canadians spend more for their internet than other countries? According to research, Canadians spend more time online than their counterparts anywhere else in the world and yet costs are higher. Why is that the case? Market research shows that the culprit is a lack of competition.​Packetworks is not one of the dominant "big 5" telecom companies and we believe in treating our customers as fairly as possible. Contact us if you would like to find out more about the Packetworks advantage.

Lack of Competition

A report by the CRTC showed that Canadians are now spending an average of $203 a month on telecommunication services. The increase from 2013 to 2014 was a disturbing 6.3%, mostly related to wireless and internet services. The CRTC report demonstrates that the Canadian market is still largely dominated by the "big 5" of Bell, Rogers, Telus, Shaw, and Quebecor. These 5 companies account for an astonishing 84% of telecommunications industry revenue.

Are Canadians Getting More for their Money?

One of the goals of the CRTC is to "ensure that Canadians have access to a world-class communication system. " One might expect then, that the reason for the higher costs are that Canadians are getting more for their money. However, that simply isn't the case. For example, according to Open Media, "data caps are rare outside Canada." Canadians also continue to complain about poor customer service.

The Packetworks Advantage

Packetworks' mission is to be the internet service provider of choice in South Western Ontario. We provide fast, secure, reliable internet connections at fair prices.

All our clients receive expert customer support that is not outsourced but handled by our own team of professionals. Our customers include large corporations, small business owners, and private consumers.

Contact us if you are interested in finding out more about the Packetworks advantage. Click here for our ever-expanding service area.

Drop Box For Business Features Review and Overview

Sunday, July 31, 2016

Dropbox for Cloud Storage Review and Overview

Dropbox for business is one of the most popular cloud storage tools available for small and large business owners alike. Well known as a popular consumer tool, dropbox for business features a wide range of useful features for work teams. Like any cloud platform, DropBox requires increased bandwidth capabilities to allow for the productivity of your team. Contact us at Packetworks if you are considering upgrading your internet connection.

Drop Box For Business Features Overview

Listed below are some of the key features offered by DropBox. These include storage, file sharing, apps; lost files and changes, administrative options, and support and security.

Dropbox Features at a Glance

Storage

2Gb to unlimited

File Sharing Capabilities

Yes

Available Apps

300,000+

Lost File Restoration

Yes

Administrative Options

Numerous

Storage

DropBox offers a basic 2GB storage with the free version. This will probably not be enough even for the smallest of small businesses. At the "Pro" Level storage is increased to 1TB for $12.99 month. However, reasonably priced packages are available to allow you to increase your storage to an unlimited level. These begin at $17.99 month. The service also allows for file uploads of up to 10GB in size.

Ease of File Sharing

DropBox for business makes sharing files between team members easy. Simply create folders for your various teams to access. Folders can also be created to include business partners or clients that do not have DropBox accounts. These features will allow your team members to stay current and improve their productivity.

"Packetworks’ fibre optic network gave us immediate ultra-fast Internet access that has given us services beyond our expectations. We receive excellent value for the dollar and – most importantly – they deliver on their promises."

Apps

Choose from over 300,000 apps specially designed to assist your team. Find tools that will enhance communications, provide workflow utilities, promote multimedia development, and help with project management. These apps will integrate seamlessly with the DropBox platform, allowing your employees to coordinate more effectively, improve their skills, and increase their productivity. Apps will use varying amounts of bandwidth, so check with your network provider to determine if you have sufficient capacity to handle cloud applications.

Lost Files & Changes

Have you ever lost or deleted a file? DropBox makes it possible to recover those files and save working hours and potential embarrassment, provided they were deleted within the previous 30 days. In addition, all changes made to files within a team folder are instantly available to all team members, keeping everyone up to date with the most recent project developments.

Administrative Options

Control access to folders via passwords and permissions. The control panel is intuitive and easy to use. Employees can track data and how it is being used both within your organization and outside with audit logs. Business owners can also bill centrally while giving users independent DropBox accounts.

Live Support & High Levels of Security

DropBox provides live support for trying to solve problems. The company has had some issues with customer service, however, and a review from "Compared and Reviewed" states that trying to contact customer service "is often a slow process." The company does offer high levels of security with SSL encryption being used in order to protect file transfers and uploaded files.

DropBox Summary

DropBox is a relatively new tech company, having been around since 2007. The company is headquartered in San Francisco and has grown rapidly since its inception to become one of the most recognized cloud platforms available. All cloud applications require internet access and sufficient speed and bandwidth. Packetworks specializes in providing business with custom networks that will meet and exceed their specific business requirements. Our expert team of professionals can answer any questions you may have regarding internet connectivity, simply contact us today!

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How Cloud Applications Impact Fiber Optic Internet Usage

Monday, July 18, 2016

How much bandwidth do you require to run your key business cloud-based apps? There is no doubt that cloud applications impact fiber optic internet usage. Below, we consider some of the most commonly used cloud-based apps and consider the implications. Contact Packetworks for more information on how much bandwidth you need.

Although there are many advantages to using cloud applications, they do require bandwidth in order to function. In fact, even the simple email requires more bandwidth than many think, at least partly due to the amount of spam mail the average user wades through. With estimates showing that spam accounts for about 8-9 times as much mail as legitimate mail, the need for bandwidth is greater than many realize.

Salesforce Bandwidth Requirements

Salesforce is an exceptional app with a wide variety of functions to assist the business owner. According to the Salesforce Success Community page, the average web page size is 90kb, but with the average Salesforce user viewing 120 pages from the site per day, the accumulated web page size is considerably larger. Furthermore, studies have shown that the simple formula, "Peak bandwidth/number of users = average bandwidth per user"does not accurately reflect company bandwidth usage as there are so many other factors to consider.

Amazon Web Services

This huge, sprawling web-based giant offers its users a variety of tools. Amazon Web Services is itself a subsidiary of Amazon.com. The wide variety of apps it offers include those that it has designed itself and many others provided by third-party business partners. The company does provide metrics in its administration console that allow you to determine your bandwidth usage over select periods of time.

Dropbox

This app provides its users with a selection of cloud storage, file sharing, syncing and collaboration apps. The company offers free services with up to 10GB usage a day, and considerably more if you are operating a paid account.

"I have found Packetworks to be innovative, responsive and helpful. We are always looking for ways to improve our business, and Packetworks works with us, helping to identify possible improvements and find ways to make them happen."

Many business owners are now realizing that their bandwidth requirements are much larger than they previously anticipated. The answer is to ensure that your bandwidth provision is greater than your requirements in order to meet the increasing demand as well as allow for your business to scale up. For fast, reliable internet and bandwidth planning that will meet your requirements, use fiber and contact Packetworks.

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The top 7 factors to consider when you buy a SIP trunk

Monday, July 11, 2016

What are the top 7 factors to consider when you buy an SIP trunk ? We have created a bulleted list of what we believe to be those factors and expanded upon them below.

SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) trunking is sometimes referred to as VoIP trunking or IP trunking and uses SIP connections to an internet service provider. Contact us for more information about internet connections.

1. Support

What type of technical support does the SIP trunk provider offer? Having technical support that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, is crucial for any business that runs around the clock, but is less so for one that closes up every day at 5pm. At Packetworks, we offer a connection with no awkward pauses, no glitches, and no connectivity issues. However, it is good to know that our technical support team is there when you need them. Our customer service is not an optional upgrade but a core business value.

2. Security

Security is an important factor to consider when you are buying an SIP trunk. At Packetworks, we take network security seriously. Our VPN's create a tunnel in which your network can operate securely and without fear of intrusion. Encryption, anti-virus software, and firewalls are further tools that protect your data. Read our post entitled "The Monetary Value of Data Security."

"I have found Packetworks to be innovative, responsive and helpful. We are always looking for ways to improve our business, and Packetworks works with us, helping to identify possible improvements and find ways to make them happen."

3. Equipment

Consider the quality of equipment that the service provider offers when you are purchasing an SIP trunk. A good IT professional will be well-versed in this type of equipment. Read, for example, our post entitled "Choosing the Best Server for Your Small Business." It stands to reason that poorer quality equipment will be more prone to breakdowns, require more administration, and be more likely to fail. Choose a provider that operates with recognized, professional, name-brand equipment. At Packetworks, we use only the best and most appropriate equipment for your SIP trunk.

4. Network Design

Networks that are designed with SIP trunking connections to meet the specific needs of the business or organization make more sense than those that are "one size fits all." Find an ISP provider that will create the perfect data network - one that is fast, reliable and secure. Packetworks creates networks designed to meet your needs, whether you need a simple internet connection, a VPN encompassing numerous buildings in far-flung locations, or a complex, technologically advanced, private managed network.

5. Bandwidth Requirements

Business internet connection requirements are growing as fast, reliable communications become more important. Businesses need fast, reliable internet connections as they usually have many more devices connected than just desktop computers. Consider the number of laptops, tablets, cellphones and other devices that your employees use to remain connected with each other, your suppliers, customers, and clients. If you are running or planning to upgrade to VoIP telephony, then your requirements increase that much more. Determine how much bandwidth you need when you talk to your provider and be confident that they can, in fact, deliver what they say they can. Ask for references from some of their other clients with similar needs and requirements to your organization.

6. Backup and Redundancy

What does your SIP trunk provider offer in the way of backup and redundancy? The more reliant that businesses become on the internet, the more they need backup and redundancy provisions. With redundancy connections, business owners can be confident that if one part of the network goes down, the rest of the network can still communicate. Packetworks recommends that businesses build in redundancy to their networks to prevent loss of data and connectivity. Our post entitled "Prevent Data Loss With Internet Redundancy" for more information. We also provide offsite data storage solutions.

7. Pricing

With more and more businesses turning to a single connection for voice and data as a cost efficient solution, pricing is a relevant factor. Choose an ISP provider who can provide a scalable high-speed broadband connection. Packetworks provides ultra-fast, reliable and secure custom networks at a price that won't break your budget. Coupled with our fast and friendly service you can be certain that you will get all the resources you need at a price you can afford.

Summary

Most business owners agree upon the advantages of SIP Trunks. Packetworks is an internet service provider that specializes in building networks that incorporate SIP trunking, including VoIP capability. If you are interested in finding out more about what we offer, contact us. Read our post entitled "The Top 5 Reasons our SIP service is best."

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Business Internet And Phone Bundles - The Top 5 Things To Watch Out For

Saturday, July 2, 2016

If you are in the market for a new internet service provider for your business internet and telephone network, there are a number of factors that you need to consider before you make your decision. Listed below are what we at Packetworks think are the top 5 things to watch out for. Contact us if you are planning a review of your existing internet service provider.

1. Connectivity Speed

Most internet providers will claim to have great connectivity speed - but do they? Internet speed for businesses is of critical importance. Internet speed is one of the most important decisions that you will make. Without high speed, your business will struggle to compete, as your computers, tablets, telephone network and cell phones battle for bandwidth.

"Packetworks’ fibre optic network gave us immediate ultra-fast Internet access that has given us services beyond our expectations. We receive excellent value for the dollar and – most importantly – they deliver on their promises. In fact, Packetworks has gone above and beyond what I’d expect from an Internet services provider."

2. Custom Networks

Does the ISP provide meet your business internet needs? Many internet service providers sell "solutions," at Packetworks we create a solution to meet your specific needs. A custom built network means that you can be confident that professional network architects will take the time and effort to learn and understand your requirements before they even begin to suggest a solution. At Packetworks, we accomplish this by performing network audits and security assessments before we make any recommendations.

3. Security

Are your files safe? We believe that internet security is a prime consideration for business owners who are responsible, not only for their own files but for the files of their clients also. Ensure that your internet service provider has a good track reputation when it comes to dealing with spam, spyware, malware, abuse controls and backup protection. Read our posts entitled "Importance of Encryption For Corporate Data Security." and "The Monetary Value of Data Security."

4. Cost

The lowest cost isn't necessarily the best value. Beware of internet service providers that only compete on the basis of cost as they will be cutting corners somewhere else in their package. Our scalable, custom-built networks are cost-effective and will meet the budget needs of your business while leaving you with the flexibility to expand your requirements as your business needs grow.

5. Customer Service

Often overlooked, yet of critical importance is the quality of the ISP's customer service. Can you be confident that the provider will be able to take care of all your service needs? Some providers may offer a better price but that is of little help when you have a problem to solve and the customer service is frustratingly poor.

Get A Free Review Of Your Data & Voice Solutions Spending Today.

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Why Choose Packetworks?

For decades, Packetworks has provided business communications technology including internet and networking services technology. Choose wisely, allow the professionals to handle your networking project in South Western Ontario, and be confident that your project will be handled quickly and efficiently. Read about our connectivity here, and our service uptime. If you are exploring ways to improve your internet connectivity, contact us now.